Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have continued in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 various forklift brands in North America, with more than 100 various models available worldwide. In regards to makers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being sold under 24 various brand names. Understandably, several of the brand names sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the key players in the business include brand names like Lift King, Tovel, Case, JCB, Manitou, Sellick, Omega Lift and Ingersoll Rand.
By borrowing several of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame, forklift manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for example, AUSA, Omega Lift, Manitou and Tovel use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which allow the operator to square up the truck's frame when it is sitting on uneven terrain in order for lifts to be made more safely. This feature is offered as an option by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers which offer rigid framed machines which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes provide the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering conventional lift truck models. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift is able to vastly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is offered on most lift trucks available. It enables the operator to hydraulically move the mast several inches to either side of center. One more option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.